Festival international des arts de Galway 2025

There’s nothing quite like Galway during the Arts Festival. The city comes alive with creativity – streets buzz with performances, pubs overflow with music and laughter, and there's an infectious energy that sweeps everyone up in the celebration. Whether you're popping into a gallery between events, catching an outdoor show in Eyre Square, or dancing into the night at the Heineken Big Top, the whole city feels like a stage.

Expect over 400,000 attendees in 2024, with an entertaining blend of international talent and local energy. It’s also a fantastic chance to rub shoulders with a mix of locals, artists, and visitors from all over the world. There’s a sense that something brilliant is always about to happen just around the corner.

Theatre & Dance: Eight new commissions and world premieres including Druid Theatre’s double-bill celebrating their 50th anniversary plus bold new dance-theatre works like Scorched Earth.

Circus & Spectacle: Giant street performances and installations, including Sabotage by NoFit State in the iconic Big Top and wandering insect displays.

Music: A stellar line-up of big names, featuring acts like Amble, Sophie Ellis-Bextor & Natasha Bedingfield, Block Rockin' Beats,, Picture This, Mary Coughlan (marking her 40th anniversary), Mogwai, Interplanetary Criminal, and Mari Samuelsen with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra.

Visual Art & Installations: Major new work on display, including a powerful installation by sculptor David Mach titled Burning Down the House.

First Thought Talks: Thought-provoking conversations with voices such as Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, Fintan O’Toole, Eman Mohammed, and Róisín Ingle.

Comedy & Community: Daily moments of light relief likr lunchtime laughs at The King’s Head pub, hosted by Galway comedian Gerry Mallon — bringing something for everyone.

Once you’ve made the most of the festival buzz in the city, it’s well worth taking a little time to explore what the rest of county Galway has to offer.

Scenic Tours: Breathtaking drives through Connemara National Park, alongside guided hiking adventures and nature-immersion experiences.

Cultural Tours: Visit the beautifully restored Kylemore Abbey, or join a heritage tour of Clifden and Roundstone—complete with local storytelling and artisan crafts.

Island Tours: Catch a ferry to the dramatic Aran Islands, soaking up traditional Irish music and authentic Gaelic culture.

Water Tours: Further enjoy the great outdoors with some water activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkelling, and more.

So, if you're visiting for the festival, don’t forget to explore some nearby experiences once the celebrations wind down – your next unforgettable Irish adventure could be just down the road!